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Beautiful and serene place. I came here with a friend of mine. I would definitely be back with my family.
I love the size and statues at this temple. Wish there was a tour guide, whether it's virtual or in person. Would love to teach my kids but im clueless as well. My family us to come here every Buddhist New Year. Always lots of vendors of all kinds of food, groceries, snacks, drinks, clothing, jewelry, toys, and all sorts of knick knacks. Come early to give your thanks to the monks and get your blessings. Some days may be busier than others due to crowds of people. I do wish they had a website or social media page to help update accurate times for blessings or events. When you come to visit from out of town it is a bummer to go when no vendors are set up or even coming too late. There is huge dance floor area, bathrooms, whether they are kept clean or not, trash and trashcans can be crazy full. Since it is Cali, make sure to bring a hat because shade can be hard to find. Making it hard for the old folks and kids. I do wish they has more interactive events that I cluded the public like Khmer games for adluts and kids. I wish my kids to experience our culture fully even if its one day of the year. I do like how cops on the premises to aid any situation, but I wish nothing happens on our holy grounds.
Had this on my bucket list & happy I made it. It was a great day to be outdoors & see the statues/decor. Very serene & peaceful. We seen a few monks walking around. I wish we had a tour guide to give us information or info in front of the statues cuz I had tons of questions. The guide we downloaded didn't have a lot of the statues. I also see a lot of African influence in some statues from hair texture, nose, lips. Interesting! The women's bathroom was unkept, way more than should be with light traffic flow. Great place to admire another culture!
Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple is located in a residential neighborhood that is hidden, in East Stockton. This is a Cambodian temple that is free to the public and is open every day, during daylight hours. This temple has over 100 statues, in which some are incredibly large and in excellent condition with colors of gold, red, yellow, green, etc and with amazing intricate detailing. The statues tell part of Buddha's story, from his birth to his childhood, to his last day on earth. One of the largest statues that may capture your eye is the 50 foot long Buddha, lying on his side. This statue is supposed to represent the end of his time on earth, showing him in the final moments before he reaches Nirvana. I learned about these statues from Stockton city's website (https://www.visitstockton.org/things-to-do/free-things-to-do/stockton-cambodian-buddhist-temple-wat-dharmararam/) and wanted to share the link in case you wish to learn about each statue if you decide to visit since there are no signs or plaques to read. Looking at all of the statues, my visit lasted at least 45 minutes. Please note that there are restrooms available for the public to use. But I do want to mention that the woman's restroom wasn't that clean during the visit. Also when I visited, it was pretty empty and only saw another couple when I was about to leave. There is only one entrance and same exit. So when you drive over here, you may pass some gates that are closed but you will eventually find the entrance. You can drive all the way to the back and you will find these amazing statues. This temple is definitely a great hidden find that is worth a visit, even if you are not Cambodian or Buddhist (which I am neither of). Also fun fact, Huell Howser came here in 2007 and featured it on his show, Road Trip.
My family's from Myanmar so culturally and religiously possibly similar to Cambodia. The statues depict Buddha's life and his journey to become Buddha. The walls of the prayer room also contain the different stories about the life of Buddha. Beautiful temple! I'll have to come back to check out the festivities and foods during Cambodian new yr since I don't know much about Cambodian culture. There is a public restroom, was clean when I was there. There is also drinking water. I did see a lady speaking English to a Caucasian man and explaining about the temple...
With the cloud of the coronavirus closing in on us especially with the Grand Princess as a reminder for the next month of how close it was hitting home, sleepless and at best restless nights and anxiety over such uncertainty became a norm for many of us in the Bay. So on our last road trip to Sacramento to return an item just days before our Shelter In Place went into effect, we finally stopped at the Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple. In a quiet area in the Southeast edge of Stockton of all places by Hwy 99 is this Cambodian temple that offered me the peace and hope I so desperately needed in the midst of chaos. No problem with social distancing which was already in our vocabulary as we had it all to ourselves for the hour we were there. With the giant 50 foot long sleeping Buddha the main attraction, there are 50 other colorful statues to enjoy at a leisurely pace and the temple itself which was open but shoes need to be removed before entering. It was a much needed respite for me to rebalance and would be a perfect place to just meditate if we had more time. Donation boxes are located throughout of which I chose some of my favorites to add to their donation boxes. Worth every dollar. As if we need any more proof that God was looking out for us, we had a break in the rain the entire time we were there only to start pouring minutes after we left. Another sign to never lose hope.
This is a very peaceful place. Beautiful statues and you feel your zen as soon as you walk in. I felt very refreshed as soon as I was done. This is a secret spot for everyone to check out regardless what religion you are.
I had no idea that this exist. I am still in awe of this temple. So well maintained. The temple depicts the story of Buddha and his journey. The statues are huge and beautiful. They are very well made and kept so nicely. They are made to perfection. The eyes speak volume. They even have a prayer room and a big hall in middle to organize events. Amble parking and public restrooms are available. If you believe in this culture and want to learn about Buddha then def recommend trying it out.
Really bummed that the Khmer new year was cancelled last year and this year due to covid 19. But really hope that things will normalize by next year so we can enjoy the Khmer New Year (Thai/Lao/Myanmar/Sri Lankan) again Because it really is a joy to be here not just spending time with the family and friends but due to numerous yummy food stations, clothes merchandise, and great music. During the new year festivity make sure to come early for the FREE parking in the temple for it gets full. Keep driving and pass the signs that charges for parking, because temple has free parking spots. However, try your best to go around for you will get lucky to find empty spots foe some folks just go in and out mainly to medidate, leave their donation and grab some food to go. But if you don't have the time to look for a free parking spot, you're more than welcome to park by the nearby houses who will charge you parking fee, which is ridiculous, these homeowners can't even spell right but has the nerve to charge for parking, will include pic from the greedy people. If you don't want to go to the festivity, anyone is welcome to visit in the daytime and walk outside the temple and enjoy the scenery when in the area. When meditating or just want to observe the temple please make sure to remove your shoes/footwear prior to entering.
It's one of the nicest temples I have been to for New years. Love the gigantic statues. I wish they had a guide or someone to explain the story behind each statue there because I would've love to learn about it. I guess I could have done some research prior, but I wasn't expecting to see that many. The food was okay. Some were good, some were not, but prices were fair. There were alot of parking and it was free.
We were looking for a place to stop and nurse the baby between Lake Tahoe and Sunnyvale. I figured she'd be awake and ready by Stockton so I searched for things to do in Stockton and this Cambodian temple popped up. The photos are stunning. In reality it kind of an odd place. Like a deserted fair grounds. Drive in through a narrow gate and park and walk to the back to take in the giant colorful sculptures. It actually made a great 30 minute stop, and the baby was nursed and ready to go!
Come and join us for a Cambodian New Year celebration ! This place is GREAT! Best Cambodian food and snacks. My all time favorite dishes is beef sticks, sticky rice and papaya salad extra spicy Lao sausages is delicious! People are super friendly, good food, good Khmer music and best part is start dancing like no one is watching! Forgot to mention, get to meet singer Jay Chan!
We have family in Stockton and have been scores of times, yet we had never explored this very interesting site. My family- including my little boys- felt very welcome to wander around this beautiful, thought-provoking, surreal place in an unexpected location. Very cool!
6 months ago
13 years later posting another review. Still a very lively place to come during the Cambodian New Year. It's actually gotten busier than ever. Lots of vendors. The lines for the food has gotten longer. What can you do? Gotta eat. lol What I've learned is just to get the stuff I don't get very often. Stuffed angel wings & Cambodian style fried bananas, especially. Since it's hot, grab some more food to take home & have a refreshing drink for the ride home too, since it's so hot. Glad all the huge statues are still there. Still very colorful place. Love coming here for the New Year to celebrate. Just gotta know what you're doing, because it's very crowded. read more
Gated temple, tons of parking, a lot of bathroom stalls (they hired workers to maintain during new years), tons of vendors, statues, designated blessing station and eating area. They had ton of spots to sit and rest all throughout the temple. The stage was filled with tradional dancing and the parade around, love it here! read more
Stopped her to check out the statutes. It was a nice 10-15 minute break for my kids! The statutes are really pretty. We didn't go into the temple or use the bathrooms, but there was ample parking. We also noticed tons of picnic tables to eat lunch there but they weren't the cleanest so we didn't stay to eat. But it was fun to take pics with things and walk around for a stretch break. When you get here, you might have to drive around a little to find the entrance since it is a large location. We mapped it using google maps and it took us to a gate that was blocked off, but we drove down the road more and found the "enter" sign. read more
1 year ago
Beautiful and serene place. I came here with a friend of mine. I would definitely be back with my family. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
I love the size and statues at this temple. Wish there was a tour guide, whether it's virtual or in person. Would love to teach my kids but im clueless as well. My family us to come here every Buddhist New Year. Always lots of vendors of all kinds of food, groceries, snacks, drinks, clothing, jewelry, toys, and all sorts of knick knacks. Come early to give your thanks to the monks and get your blessings. Some days may be busier than others due to crowds of people. I do wish they had a website or social media page to help update accurate times for blessings or events. When you come to visit from out of town it is a bummer to go when no vendors are set up or even coming too late. There is huge dance floor area, bathrooms, whether they are kept clean or not, trash and trashcans can be crazy full. Since it is Cali, make sure to bring a hat because shade can be hard to find. Making it hard for the old folks and kids. I do wish they has more interactive events that I cluded the public like Khmer games for adluts and kids. I wish my kids to experience our culture fully even if its one day of the year. I do like how cops on the premises to aid any situation, but I wish nothing happens on our holy grounds. read more
7 months ago
Had this on my bucket list & happy I made it. It was a great day to be outdoors & see the statues/decor. Very serene & peaceful. We seen a few monks walking around. I wish we had a tour guide to give us information or info in front of the statues cuz I had tons of questions. The guide we downloaded didn't have a lot of the statues. I also see a lot of African influence in some statues from hair texture, nose, lips. Interesting! The women's bathroom was unkept, way more than should be with light traffic flow. Great place to admire another culture! read more
Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple is located in a residential neighborhood that is hidden, in East Stockton. This is a Cambodian temple that is free to the public and is open every day, during daylight hours. This temple has over 100 statues, in which some are incredibly large and in excellent condition with colors of gold, red, yellow, green, etc and with amazing intricate detailing. The statues tell part of Buddha's story, from his birth to his childhood, to his last day on earth. One of the largest statues that may capture your eye is the 50 foot long Buddha, lying on his side. This statue is supposed to represent the end of his time on earth, showing him in the final moments before he reaches Nirvana. I learned about these statues from Stockton city's website (https://www.visitstockton.org/things-to-do/free-things-to-do/stockton-cambodian-buddhist-temple-wat-dharmararam/) and wanted to share the link in case you wish to learn about each statue if you decide to visit since there are no signs or plaques to read. Looking at all of the statues, my visit lasted at least 45 minutes. Please note that there are restrooms available for the public to use. But I do want to mention that the woman's restroom wasn't that clean during the visit. Also when I visited, it was pretty empty and only saw another couple when I was about to leave. There is only one entrance and same exit. So when you drive over here, you may pass some gates that are closed but you will eventually find the entrance. You can drive all the way to the back and you will find these amazing statues. This temple is definitely a great hidden find that is worth a visit, even if you are not Cambodian or Buddhist (which I am neither of). Also fun fact, Huell Howser came here in 2007 and featured it on his show, Road Trip. read more
9 months ago
My family's from Myanmar so culturally and religiously possibly similar to Cambodia. The statues depict Buddha's life and his journey to become Buddha. The walls of the prayer room also contain the different stories about the life of Buddha. Beautiful temple! I'll have to come back to check out the festivities and foods during Cambodian new yr since I don't know much about Cambodian culture. There is a public restroom, was clean when I was there. There is also drinking water. I did see a lady speaking English to a Caucasian man and explaining about the temple... read more
With the cloud of the coronavirus closing in on us especially with the Grand Princess as a reminder for the next month of how close it was hitting home, sleepless and at best restless nights and anxiety over such uncertainty became a norm for many of us in the Bay. So on our last road trip to Sacramento to return an item just days before our Shelter In Place went into effect, we finally stopped at the Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple. In a quiet area in the Southeast edge of Stockton of all places by Hwy 99 is this Cambodian temple that offered me the peace and hope I so desperately needed in the midst of chaos. No problem with social distancing which was already in our vocabulary as we had it all to ourselves for the hour we were there. With the giant 50 foot long sleeping Buddha the main attraction, there are 50 other colorful statues to enjoy at a leisurely pace and the temple itself which was open but shoes need to be removed before entering. It was a much needed respite for me to rebalance and would be a perfect place to just meditate if we had more time. Donation boxes are located throughout of which I chose some of my favorites to add to their donation boxes. Worth every dollar. As if we need any more proof that God was looking out for us, we had a break in the rain the entire time we were there only to start pouring minutes after we left. Another sign to never lose hope. read more
This is a very peaceful place. Beautiful statues and you feel your zen as soon as you walk in. I felt very refreshed as soon as I was done. This is a secret spot for everyone to check out regardless what religion you are. read more
I had no idea that this exist. I am still in awe of this temple. So well maintained. The temple depicts the story of Buddha and his journey. The statues are huge and beautiful. They are very well made and kept so nicely. They are made to perfection. The eyes speak volume. They even have a prayer room and a big hall in middle to organize events. Amble parking and public restrooms are available. If you believe in this culture and want to learn about Buddha then def recommend trying it out. read more
Really bummed that the Khmer new year was cancelled last year and this year due to covid 19. But really hope that things will normalize by next year so we can enjoy the Khmer New Year (Thai/Lao/Myanmar/Sri Lankan) again Because it really is a joy to be here not just spending time with the family and friends but due to numerous yummy food stations, clothes merchandise, and great music. During the new year festivity make sure to come early for the FREE parking in the temple for it gets full. Keep driving and pass the signs that charges for parking, because temple has free parking spots. However, try your best to go around for you will get lucky to find empty spots foe some folks just go in and out mainly to medidate, leave their donation and grab some food to go. But if you don't have the time to look for a free parking spot, you're more than welcome to park by the nearby houses who will charge you parking fee, which is ridiculous, these homeowners can't even spell right but has the nerve to charge for parking, will include pic from the greedy people. If you don't want to go to the festivity, anyone is welcome to visit in the daytime and walk outside the temple and enjoy the scenery when in the area. When meditating or just want to observe the temple please make sure to remove your shoes/footwear prior to entering. read more
It's one of the nicest temples I have been to for New years. Love the gigantic statues. I wish they had a guide or someone to explain the story behind each statue there because I would've love to learn about it. I guess I could have done some research prior, but I wasn't expecting to see that many. The food was okay. Some were good, some were not, but prices were fair. There were alot of parking and it was free. read more
We were looking for a place to stop and nurse the baby between Lake Tahoe and Sunnyvale. I figured she'd be awake and ready by Stockton so I searched for things to do in Stockton and this Cambodian temple popped up. The photos are stunning. In reality it kind of an odd place. Like a deserted fair grounds. Drive in through a narrow gate and park and walk to the back to take in the giant colorful sculptures. It actually made a great 30 minute stop, and the baby was nursed and ready to go! read more
7 years ago
Come and join us for a Cambodian New Year celebration ! This place is GREAT! Best Cambodian food and snacks. My all time favorite dishes is beef sticks, sticky rice and papaya salad extra spicy Lao sausages is delicious! People are super friendly, good food, good Khmer music and best part is start dancing like no one is watching! Forgot to mention, get to meet singer Jay Chan! read more
5 years ago
We have family in Stockton and have been scores of times, yet we had never explored this very interesting site. My family- including my little boys- felt very welcome to wander around this beautiful, thought-provoking, surreal place in an unexpected location. Very cool! read more
Thanks to Ann L. for her review. I checked out the website in her review. Huell Howser, the man most people love to hate, did a program on Stockton and interviewed folks as they were painting these gigantic statues. I am one of the few people who like Huell Howser and appreciate all the "forgotten gems" he visits, Unbelievable! Spectacular GIGANTIC statues! You have to see them in person to appreciate them. They are so colorful and magical. You feel like you have been transported to Cambodia or someplace close to Heaven, Nirvana or some other holy plane of existence! read more
15 years ago
I say one of the best place to come and celebrate Cambodian new years! I love how the statues are huge!!! FOOD for 1st timer recommendations (For those who want to try a little bit of this and that): papaya salad, hot pho noodles, beef/meatball/chicken sticks, fried shrimp with jalapenos, sugar cane drink, and deep fried bananas/taro. I tried the pho noodles because its one of my stapled items every time I go to Khmer New years. I love the chicken sticks with pickled carrots on the side or papaya salad. Be careful with the papaya salad it can come out to be very spicy and make sure its mild. Also, each vendor has their own twist and personality. Its so difficult to find one with the right amount of spice, sweet, and sour papaya salad. If you do...LUCKY because its so good. On a hot day you would really want shaved ice but its so not worth it. I guess I got the wrong booth because the boba was soggy and the fruits seem outdated. If your thirsty I say stick with the sugar can juicer. The natural sugar cane has a hint of sweetness to it and its refreshing. PERKS: Free admission and parking--:OYes I live in long beach and $40 in long beach for admission is ridiculous. Great cultural festivity and meet new people. Dance floor with a live band. Good thing about it is that people are dancing!!! I have to say its so hot this time of year and I know this sounds weird but don't wear sandles or heels. I know its cute and all but the ground is muddy. You do not want to wear heels and sink into it. The food prices can be very expensive but I believe some of the proceeds goes to the temple. Nothing makes you feel better than helping out for a good cause while enjoying good food. So, far I have been coming here for two years and I like to keep this tradition. read more
16 years ago
This place is a must visit in Stockton. I can't wait to go back. You can find a more information on the Stockton city homepage. One of the guys that works there approached my dad and I and he was really friendly. He took us around and spoke to us for at least 20 minutes or so. The monks were friendly but obviously did not talk to us. Expect a monk who spoke English really well and he is youngest one there. He is the monk who is mainly responsible for all these statues! He is amazing and is actually trained from Cambodia to make these structures. The size of the statues amazed me. You can see the whole story of buddha around the place. All the way from birth of buddha to his journey away from home to enlightment. It's pretty cool. The inside of the buildings were great too. They have 2 big buddha statues from Cambodia and a few emerald and jade statues. You can also see the place where the monks eat on the floor. It was like 100 deg that day was the only drawback from this visit. However, everything else was perfect. The annual cambodian new year is celebrated here! The person said in November. Can't wait to go. read more
Definitely five stars...a 'must see'. And right here in Stockton. You will be in awe! And it's free...at least when I drove in it was. I just did a quick vehicular tour of the place because it was late in the afternoon and it was .hot.! I don't know much about the place or its history. But the one person I spoke with at the facility said that it was started back in the 90s. The figures are all handmade on site. Quite a job. Each figure has a religious significance. They have a religious celebration open to the public in April of each year. I think he said it coincides with their Cambodian new year. I plan to keep track so I can attend next year. I will go out in the meantime and try to learn more of this place. It's fascinating and definitely worth the trip. It is south-east of town on Carpenter Rd., tucked back in a residential neighborhood. The GPS came in very handy, especially with all the crazy roadwork and detours in the area. read more
I Love this place... HAPPY CAMBODIAN NEW YEAR 2011!!! This entire weekend at Wat Dharmararam Temple they are holding festivities for the new year. Lots of food, vending, and entertainment. A great place for anyone, free parking and free admission. This place is beautiful enjoy a good time here this weekend! There were will many people, be prepared for a packed crowd hard time to find parking. Most of the prices on food aren't that bad average of $5 i'd have to say. Food ranging from Cambodian kabobs, various egg rolls, crab rolls, meat balls, mango is everywhere, boba, shaved ice etc. It gets really hot there are trees but not too much shade, so wear light clothing, bring an umbrella to beat off the sun, and wear some sun screen. Also if you plan on wearing sandals your feet might get dirty from the parking area which is gravel and dirt. lol read more
13 years ago
Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple was featured on Huell Howser's TV Series "California's Gold" in 2007. (http://www.visitstockton.org/things-to-do/free-things-to-do/stockton-cambodian-buddhist-temple-wat-dharmararam) We visited the temple to see these larger than life hand carved and painted statues, and they did not disappoint. (One was approximately 50 feet long, it was huge!) They were all uniquely beautiful, the colors were so vibrant (jewel encrusted even), and it is evident that there was a lot of attention paid to detail. We even had the opportunity of witnessing them painting murals on the building, they were standing on the roof! Other volunteers were working on a newly crafted statue, and painting it ever so carefully. We couldn't help but feel a very peaceful aura while strolling around the temple. Everyone we encountered there, both volunteers and monks, were all so friendly and inviting. I saw many cats roaming around the temple, as though they were strays with no where to go and the temple provided a sanctuary and home for them. They were all laying around relaxing, and some even approached us! I read on visitstockton. org that every year the Cambodian New Year Celebration "draws thousands of people to the Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple for delicious food, music, dancing, and celebration of the Cambodian New Year" This year it takes place on: "Date: Thursday, April 17, 2014 - Sunday, April 20, 2014 Event hours at 8:00am to 7:00pm. The New Year's Celebration is free and open to the public. Admission is free and parking within the Temple is free! Donations greatly appreciated." For those of you who haven't been here and would like to, maybe then would be an even more exciting time to go? Overall we had a pleasant experience there. On a side note, I've heard that Wat Dhammararam Buddhist Temple is the largest Cambodian Temple in the United States, but I can't confirm that. (If anyone knows, I'd love to know if this is true or not?!) I read somewhere online that these are probably the updated phone numbers: "Khmer 209-915-6411 and for English 209-423-9356." read more
17 years ago
It is so wonderful...I really felt like I was in Laos or Thailand...I never been to Cambodia..but I suppose the Wat would be very similiar to the natural surroundings...I have visited 4 times...and it's beautiful everytime...because they are always changing and developing new structures. Beautiful... read more
Second year here to celebrate Cambodian new year with my partner. We always show up early basically because its really hot in the afternoon and it get really packed around 11 and 12. So, its a good idea to come early to get food take pictures with the beautiful buddha pieces and get parking close by especially if you're coming from the east bay. The first meal we always get is the kathieu (cambodian pho) and whats awesome is that all profits goes to the temple. Beef sticks are a must and dont forget to stock up on the cambodian beef jerky. Last year we bought 20 pieces for $20 this year they went up .50 cents but the favor was much better this year compared to last. Make you bring water and sunblock as there are not that much shade from the sun and its usually in the mid 80's or 90's by noon. The statues here are beautiful and make sure to bring cash and donate (every statue has a donation box for the temple) or you can get blessed. Its a great experience to attend and the food is great. read more
Gorgeous place with amazing sculptures! You HAVE to at least visit it once just to sightsee and see the amazing hard work of the artist. It's a big temple so there's a lot of walking around. There's a lot of chickens and cats that roam around. I even had one cat walk with me as I toured the area. She was so sweet. The statues tell the story of Buddha. You can look online for the English story as you walk and read about it. It's so serene there. There was no negative energy and it was just fascinating. Also it's free admission and the temple is open anytime during the daylight hours. read more
12 years ago
One of the best ways to introduce your kid to the story of Gautam Buddha -- his life from a prince to a monk and final emancipation. It would have been five+ stars if there had been English translations of all these beautiful larger than life statues. read more
16 years ago
18 years ago
Visually interesting, vibrant, and larger than life. FREE? Yes, but what would Buddha say if you pretended to ignore the metal cash boxes that adorn each statue? You could say you missed one, but 10---really? You could remember suddenly that you only brought plastic, look desparately through all of your pockets and your seat cushions for coins, and when that produces nothing, promise to yelp so others will be prepared on their journey and hopefully make up for your shortcomings. We were so ill-prepared. The visitor's center was closed, but the statues were inviting us in. However, all the markers are in a foreign language-- maybe sanskrit? But since we aren't bilingual nor buddhist, we could only guess what each statue represented. I'm pretty sure had the visitor's center been open, there would have been the option to purchase the matching English translation. I would be willing to pay for this treasure of knowledge. So, if you are going to visit and you aren't a buddhist, I would recommend that you check into it OR do some research so it will be educational as well as aesthetically pleasing for your journey. So, be sure to 1. Call the Visitor's Center to get the 411, 2. Bring your camera with properly charged batteries and/or film (however you roll), and 3. Please BRING CASH to deposit into the cash box(es)! read more
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